As I wrote when Rogov posted about his semi-retirement (Craig, your joke was so bitter-sweetly funny), we had our differences but I really wish for him that he could have enjoyed life just a little longer. But at least it appears that his suffering was relatively short and that he died happy, and for that I'm glad.

Apparently, he also managed to crash the WLDG servers with his self-obit. Now that's style.

Everyone dies with unfinished business. A wine lover also dies with many unopen bottles. Rogov must have left the earth with a damn huge inventory.

I never met Daniel, though I corresponded with him often. I know I write this for me - he is in a better place, while we are still here. We disagreed often, but with respect. When I heard I felt an overwhelming sadness and I cried like I haven't since a child. There was a grace that to me was a remnant of the past and a promise of the future. His advice and opinion was always sought and treasured, even where I knew his would not be the same as mine. His passing will be more than felt, it will be remembered, often, when we realize that his voice is no longer there.

(aka newlawyer)Is this stuff on the level or are you just making it up as you go along? (Groucho)

Wine is crying, so am I.The first words I told him the first time we met was "you deserve to have a street on your name for what you do for Israeli wine", his answer was "oh no, I have enough enemies...".Actually, as a new born wine lover I started to hear about him by a wine-shop owner I was working with 2 years ago and then by various other people, in bad ways!But it was too unanimous to be true, so I thought in myself "that criticized Rogov must be a good man". So I got his Wine Guide and I started to study it, each page was an open door to my new born passion, and I did bless him for it. Then I contacted him and he accepted to meet me for a dedicace of my so precious Rogov Guide*. I immediately felt in love with that so special true human being.The second time was at the evening organized for the publication of the Rogov Guide in Hebrew, again I was so impressed by this man of class, sensitivity and humor. I told him something like "I don't like those people who talk about you in bad ways, they should instead focus on what you did for Israeli wine because nobody ever did it", he answered me with a warm hug.This is him, a poet who did truly love people, the last gentleman.Wine is crying, so am I... still a bit and then I will let him go.

.....we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. A. Lincoln

I don't even know what to write, so I will refrain out of concern that I will not be sufficiently poignant. I will, however, share that, when discussing over Shabbat lunch last week what my wife and kids were going to get me for my birthday this coming weekend, - of ALL things in this world - my 10-year old suggested - with all his earnestness - that we should invite Daniel Rogov to come eat dinner with me. Of all the pleasures in life that I covet that he could have suggested, this is what he chose. And he knows me pretty well.....

Without Daniel it is doubtful if the Israeli wine world would be the vibrant community that it is today. His contribution to the evolution of the knowledge and awareness of Israeli wine was immense. He will be missed and went out in his own inimitable style. RIP Daniel.

Just as an old bottle of fine wine can evoke memories of years past, Daniel’s words will no doubt continue to remind us of the man and of his lasting contribution to the world of wine for many years to come.

Rogov was my guide as I took my first steps into the world of serious wine appreciation. I simply would not be the wine lover I am today without him. It's heartbreaking to know that our long-hoped-for meeting will never happen. And I'm particularly sad to have been so busy this past year that I was not able to spend more time "with" him. This is a sad day not just for us here, but for the world of wine, and for all with a passion for the good things in life.

Goodbye, dear Rogov . . . .

"The sun, with all those planets revolving about it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else to do"Galileo Galilei

(avatar: me next to the WIYN 3.5 meter telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory)

Some people seem to hang on until they feel the time is right to make a graceful exit.

How marvelous that Rogov (as he always signed his postings) managed to keep himself going so he could attend last week's testimonial dinner in his honor. And then to write an eloquent obituary for himself. Besides writing it the way he wanted, he was also kind enough to gently say goodbye.

Many people go through life not knowing that they are loved or appreciated; Rogov was not one of them.

I was asked to convey this most excellent contribution from a fan of Rogov's who wishes to remain anonymous, written in Rogov's own tasting note style:

Rogov, Daniel, Brooklyn-Paris-Tel Aviv, ?-2011: A royal gentleman who brought others together through his love for people, food and wine. He had strong flavors of sweetness supported by a vast and deep knowledge of his trade. His forum revealed his generous spirit and his desire to educate and help others. Strong like oak, spicy when appropriate, critical at times although without any acid remarks. Notes flowed freely and included fine chocolate, coffee and of course, tobacco – all of which he enjoying over long conversations. We are grateful you imparted your wisdom and kindness to us forumites. Reflect, Remember, and Recognize now-forever. Score 100. Worth seeking out multiple memories and cellaring for years to come.

My wine shopping and I have never had a problem. Just a perpetual race between the bankruptcy court and Hell.--Rogov

Very hard to believe I will not be reading any more of Rogov's comments and posts. His were ones I always looked at even when I was not keen on the wine or topic, as there was always this sense of reasonableness and tranquility that permeated his words. I love that he wrote his own good bye letter. Awesome. May God be with you.